By Henry Jackson

The Ajax midfielder believes his side can make it to the Europa League final held at the Amsterdam Arena, ahead of their game against Steaua Bucharest in the last 32

Ajax midfielder Christian Poulsen has built up his side's chances of reaching the Europa League final, ahead of their match against Steaua Bucharest in the last 32.

The Eredivisie side were drawn in the Champions League's so-called 'group of death' at the start of the season, but an impressive third-placed finish ensured Europa League football.

"Everybody thought that we wouldn't stand a chance in a group with Real Madrid, Borussia Dortmund and Manchester City," he told De Telegraaf.

"But we held our own in a group with the champions from Spain, Germany and England.

"Third place was the maximum result for us. We had three poor games after good outings against Manchester City and away versus Dortmund. We have to take the positives from our Champions League campaign and use them in the Europa League.

"The final? Why not... If you can beat Manchester City, then Steaua Bucharest and potentially Chelsea pose nice challenges as well."

Poulsen was also quick to dispel any talk of his Ajax side being too young to succeed, explaining that they have plenty of experience at the top level.

"It doesn't say anything that we have a young team. Eriksen is only 20, but has already over 30 caps, played a World Cup and won two Eredivisie titles.